News & Issues: Candidate Interviews

State House 146 Interviews - 2004

1. What do you hope to accomplish as a member of the Pennsylvania general Assembly?

   Tom Quigley:

   The biggest accomplishment would be to address the local (school) property tax issues.

   Dan Weand:

   Looking to revitalize the Pottstown area. We need to change the attitude and mentality in Harrisburg and attract new revenues.

2. What do you believe are the major problems facing the Commonwealth and your legislative district?

   Tom Quigley:

   Property taxes, medical malpractice, and the quality of health care. Also open space preservation and smart growth. I feel regional planning seems to be the way to go.

   Dan Weand:

   We need to attract high paying jobs. We have an eroding health care system where people need to pay too much of their income for health care costs. We don't do enough to retain our young people or promote urban revitalization.

3. The general Assembly and the Governor's Office are discussing ways to reform property taxes. What do you believe is the best way to resolve this issue?

   Tom Quigley:

   n/a

   Dan Weand:

   There needs to be more equitable distribution of state funds. We also have an opportunity to bring in a new source of revenue though the gambling revenue. Gambling can also be a way of promoting tourism.

4. Initially instituted as a temporary tax, the realty transfer tax has evolved into a large source of revenue for Pennsylvania. Would you support or oppose legislation which would appropriate monies from the realty transfer tax to fund programs such as open space preservation, urban revitalization, and the like? Would you support or oppose legislation that would increase the real estate transfer tax?

   Tom Quigley:

   The Commonwealth Caucus tax plan has been of interest to me. If this can eliminate the local property tax, then it might be a worthwhile exchange. I understand this is a work in progress.

   Dan Weand:

   I don't like the idea of a tax increase. I don't know of any country that has taxed itself into prosperity. I would generally be opposed but not closed minded.

5. Pennsylvania's Municipalities Planning Code provides local municipalities authority for comprehensive planning and zoning. What role should local government play in land use decisions, and what powers do they need to adequately address issues that are presented?

   Tom Quigley:

   Regional planning seems to be the way to go. Although local governments should have some ability to control their destiny.

   Dan Weand:

   Local government officials should have an active role in local land use decisions because they are forced to live with their decisions. However, they need to have some oversight by authorities who have a broader perspective on things.

6. Many properties in Pennsylvania suffer from blight as a result of tenant neglect and/or absentee property management. What role do you believe government should play in regulating property maintenance and use?

   Tom Quigley:

   Local governments can address landlord/tenant issues through local code enforcement activities.

   Dan Weand:

   They have the authority to set up the use of the land as well as the maintenance of the properties. Sometimes the laws that exist either are not used to the extent they could be used or there are flaws in the laws.

7. Do you favor or oppose legislation that would require the state to consider the impact of proposed legislation or regulations on the right of individuals to use their private property?

   Tom Quigley:

   n/a

   Dan Weand:

   They should definitely look at private property owners rights, but compensation should be looked at on a case by case basis.

8. Many municipalities impose resale inspection requirements upon sellers of real property as a condition of transfer, though each municipality has different requirements. Would you support efforts to provide more uniformity and consistency in the application of point of sale inspection requirements?

   Tom Quigley:

   I support the general concept of providing uniformity among municipalities for use and occupancy inspections.

   Dan Weand:

   Yes, at this point in time.

9. What is your position on campaign finance reform in Pennsylvania and to what extent do you believe PACs should be restricted in state legislative campaigns?

   Tom Quigley:

   As long as there is full disclosure, I don’t see a pressing need for campaign finance reform. PACs play an important role in a democracy.

   Dan Weand:

   I don't see PACs as being damaging to the process.

10. What are your views of the REALTOR profession and the role of your local REALTORS in this community

    Tom Quigley:

    I have a positive view of REALTORS®. Interaction has been generally good; they seem to be looking out for the interests of their clients.

    Dan Weand:

    We need to change our image; we are viewed as used car salesmen. Our image does not reflect the level of knowledge or professionalism we al need to have.

11. Has you campaign been endorsed by any other state or local organization?

    Tom Quigley:

    None

    Dan Weand:

    The Democratic Committees.